Food Production - Machine Operator

The Machine Operator ensures the safe and efficient operation of machinery, meeting both quality and production targets. Responsibilities include monitoring machines, maintaining compliance with OSHA, FDA, and EPA standards, and performing routine checks and maintenance Operators are expected to adjust settings to optimize production, troubleshoot issues, and maintain cleanliness of equipment and areas, all while adhering to SQF and GMP practices.

• Safely operate and regulate food manufacturing equipment following established guidelines. Perform setups, startups, and breakdowns of machinery at the beginning and end of each production shift.
• Proactively identify and troubleshoot mechanical issues to minimize downtime. Make necessary adjustments to maximize machine efficiency and ensure machines are running at standard speeds.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards including SQF, FDA, USDA, and OSHA regulations. Monitor product quality by checking dates, weights, and temperatures to ensure they meet established guidelines.
• Maintain a clean and orderly work area by performing general housekeeping and ensuring aisles and exits are clear. Properly dispose of trash and ensure equipment is clean and reset according to SOPs during product changes.
• Maintain accurate shift documentation, such as Metal Detector checks and Batch Orders. Report any errors, incidents, or mechanical issues to supervisors or appropriate technicians promptly. Communicate effectively with team members and key departments about improvements and operational status.
• Follow company safety guidelines and HACCP requirements to maintain a safe working environment. Report all job-related injuries and potential safety hazards to the supervisor.
• Check for correct materials and ingredients before production runs and maintain necessary machine supplies to ensure continuous operations.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of six months to one year of experience as a Machine Operator in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in the poultry, beef, or pork industries is preferred, but experience in other food-related industries will also be considered.
• At least one year of production experience in a manufacturing setting is preferred.
• Experience operating machinery is essential. Familiarity with ERP software is an advantage.

• Must be able to communicate (read, write, speak) fluently in English or Spanish
• Able to utilize electronic tablet for data entry and communication.
• Team player with a positive, helpful attitude.
• Minimum of 18 years old or over.
• Have a positive attitude and great attendance.
• Pass related equipment and proficiency test for their activity.
• Willingness to work on weekends when needed.
• Must be able to work in a facility that handles allergens.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, and feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; taste and smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. The employee will be exposed to a noisy environment that varies from hot to cold in temperature. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Exposure to food tasting and smells including all food allergens.